Mission Possible

4th Saturday Meals

On the fourth Saturday of every month, a group of Ebenezer Church volunteers meet at Fredericksburg United Methodist Church to prepare and serve a meal to 100 guests. Ebenezer’s 4th Saturday Meals, part of Micah Ministries’ community meal program, ensures that individuals and families in Fredericksburg have a hot, healthy meal.

The program leaders provide everything for a delicious dinner. In November, the menu included Italian chicken, potatoes and green beans, and bread and desserts provided by Panera Bread. The first shift of volunteers set up the dining area to serve up to seventy-two at a time and prepare the food in the commercial style kitchen. Once the setup is complete, volunteers welcome diners from the Fredericksburg community. The second shift of Ebenezer volunteers serve the meal restaurant style, clean, and close up for the night.

While the meal is appreciated, it is the community of guests that really makes a difference. Program leader Paul Wade said that he has been able to get to know some of the 4th Saturday Meal clients. “Everyone has a story,” he said. Paul pointed out that diners are from all across the community, including individuals, seniors, and families with young children – many are Micah’s homeless clients.

While some focus on providing meals for our under-resourced neighbors during Thanksgiving and Christmas, 4th Saturday Meals provides the chance for volunteers to give the same service throughout the year. As can be imagined, serving the monthly meal for 100 people has a lot of moving pieces.

The team can always use volunteers, including individuals, families, and groups, who can spare a couple hours to set up, clean, or cook. No special skills are required, only a willingness to help those in our local area, and an openness to listen and share stories.

Support Micah Ministries

You can support the café by volunteering or simply enjoying lunch. The Café is open for lunch and operates on a ‘pay what you can’ system. Next time you are in downtown Fredericksburg, stop in and see Micah’s progress in action.